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Archive for the ‘Inspirational Music’ Category

Guide for Olympic Albums Banner

Olympic Theme Statue Kiev UkraineInformation guide for Official Olympic Albums and where to purchase Olympic music of the Summer and Winter Olympic Opening and Closing Ceremonies.

If you are a fan of the Olympic and Paralympic Games and want purchase information for available Olympic albums, soundtracks or individual MP3 digital song downloads, perhaps I can assist.

In most cases I have found people are looking for an official song, recording or playlist by artists performing during a Summer or Winter Games Opening and Closing Ceremony.

Finding official music albums sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) can be time consuming so my objective is to provide accurate assistance to visitors.

Since I have covered music news related to the Olympic Games for several years, I can pass along detailed information on the availability of specific Olympic music selections and purchasing details like where to sample or buy official albums.

Whether you want to buy the official music of the Sochi Opening and Closing Ceremonies or find authorized albums from past Olympic Games, availability varies for each Olympic venue.

Even if an authentic recording is offered they don’t get much marketing support from the IOC, and some albums or soundtracks are available for purchase while others are not.

For example the newest release, Official Album of Sochi 2014 Olympic Games, was made available on February 3, 2014. Another example is Isles Of Wonder: Music For The Opening Ceremony Of The London 2012 Olympic Games, & Enlightenment – Music for the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games are available, and can easily be found at online retail stores like iTunes or Amazon.

Athena Olympic Themed StatueLikewise there are additional official albums to sample or purchase from earlier Opening and Closing Olympic Ceremonies. Each are unique in their own way, and provided below is a list of available albums to choose from.

In the event an album is not offered and you want to find a track list of songs by performing artists so you may purchase the individual songs yourself, creating your own playlist can be obtained by several methods.

Major news organizations, especially a news organization in the host country, provide an accurate description of the ceremony events in the specific order they were performed.

Another source to find an official album or list of artists and a track list of songs is Wikipedia. Simply enter search criteria related to the specific Olympic Opening or Closing Ceremony of the host country you are looking for. Various sporting or music blogs, including this one, provide accurate, detailed information for their visitors too.

One word of advice is to make a determination of whether or not the album or songs you want to buy are actual selections from an authorized album. This is especially true when searching for an official Olympic album at online retailers like iTunes, Amazon, CDBaby. The album cover and product details will tell you a lot, since they are marketed as “un-official.”

Music artists will sometimes market a “tribute album” which is made in good faith in honor of the games, but they are not endorsed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Olympic Theme Statue Kiev UkraineThe majority of artists will show integrity by clearly indicating the marketing status of their music product as a tribute album only.

You can usually determine tribute albums by checking the release date, which typically show the date released days or months prior to an Olympic Games Opening Ceremony.

Tribute albums can be original music or have a playlist of national anthems, ceremony fanfares and theme songs of the actual music. Although these are not authentic releases, tribute albums and songs can be a worthwhile product to purchase.

Many available products are professional symphony pieces performed by famous concert orchestras, but they too are merely offering their version of an actual song.

One final piece of information concerning official Olympic music is the fact most official albums are not a recorded live performance of an Opening and Closing Ceremony itself.

In other words the selections you may be interested in purchasing might not be in the order performed, and specific songs may be added or various artists may not be included in the official version. All things considered, authentic Olympic and Paralympic albums are of course, a one of a kind collectable recording.

With the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil two years away, it is unknown at this time whether there will be an official Rio Summer Games album. One feature we can count on and look forward to is the Rio Olympic Opening and Closing ceremonies. The Rio 2016 Summer Olympics are sure to be as thrilling as the Brazilian Carnivals themselves!

Find a list of official Olympic albums at Amazon.com, and read my category section dedicated to Official Olympic Songs. Big Stock Photos of statues in Kiev, Ukraine and Vienna, Austria by Dogi78, Jozo & Kyolshin.

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Official Albums of OlympicsOfficial Summer and Winter Olympic Album Collection.

With the Closing Ceremony of the Sochi Winter Olympic Games now over, many people will be looking to buy an official album of the Sochi Olympic and Paralympic Games. We can expect the same when Rio de Janeiro, Brazil hosts the Summer Olympic Games in 2016.

One authentic album available from the Sochi Winter Games is titled; Official Album of Sochi 2014 Olympic Games. There are also authentic albums from previous Olympic Games available too. Shown below is a collection of Olympic music now available. See you in Rio de Janeiro!

Sample the entire collection of Olympic albums at Amazon.com and read my category on Official Olympic Songs. Big Stock Photo by Siart.

Collection of official Olympic albums available for purchase:

Sochi Olympic Games AlbumOfficial London Olympic AlbumVancouver Olympic AlbumVancouver Olympic Closing AlbumOfficial Beijing Olympic AlbumAthens Olympic Opening Ceremony AlbumAthens Olympic Closing AlbumSalt Lake Utah Olympic AlbumOlympic Winter Games Album 20022000 Olympic Opening Ceremony1996 Olympic Games Album1988 Summer Olympics Album

1. Official Album of Sochi 2014 Olympic Games
2. Isles Of Wonder: Music For The Opening Ceremony Of The London 2012 Olympic Games
3. Sounds of Vancouver 2010: Opening Ceremony Commemorative Album
4. Sounds of Vancouver 2010: Olympic Winter Games – Closing Ceremony Commemorative
5. The Official Album for Beijing 2008 Olympic Games: One World One Dream
6. Unity – Athens 2004 -The Official Athens 2004 Olympic Games Album
7. Harmony: Athens 2004 Olympic Official Album
8. Salt Lake 2002 Official: Music of the Games
9. Light Up The Land: 2002 Olympic Winter Games
10. Games of the XXVII Olympiad – Official Music from the 2000 Sydney Opening Ceremonies
11. Rhythm Of The Games: 1996 Olympic Games Album
12. 1988 Summer Olympics Album: One Moment in Time
John Adorney - The Wonder WellNew Age Music Review: The Wonder Well by John Adorney.

When it comes to quality new age music the vocalist and instrumental artists on the Eversound Record Label are a reliable source for some of the finest contemporary instrumental vocal music available today.

John Adorney is recognized as one of the very best new age artists on the Eversound Record label, and a featured performer on the record label’s popular compilation releases; The Artists of Eversound LIVE!! – 15 Anniversary Concert & Eversound’s 10th Anniversary compilation albums.

The Wonder Well is the newest album by John Adorney. Judging from what others have said about his eighth album, everyone seems to be in agreement this is the best instrumental and vocal albums he has produced to date.

If you have heard The Wonder Well you would probably agree too. With 11 vocal instrumental songs The Wonder Well is the 2014 follow up to albums John Adorney & Daya – Live! In Concert, River of Breath & The Fountain. Quality driven at every turn, what a super follow-up album this is!

The theme you will hear on The Wonder Well is inspiring music fashioned by modern classic rhythms. The amazing vocalist Daya is again a featured artist, singing on four songs, along with Richard Hardy who plays bamboo flute on the last song. Every track is composed with a free flowing instrumental style, rich in depth and a wonderful melody line at every turn.

Eversound Artist John AdorneyAfter years of reviewing John Adorney albums it never ceases to amaze me how one man can consistently create elegant music year after year. There are rare qualities in all of his albums, and I too agree this newest release is the finest I have heard. Those familiar with his music know this, and people who listen to his music for the first time will quickly discover this.

For any musician, producing one sensational album in a lifetime is an achievement, but rare is the fact John Adorney manages to produce an exceptional album every time. It’s a high goal for any artist to achieve but it’s what we have come to expect from one of the best artists at the Eversound Record Label, John Adorney.

The 11 songs on John Adorney’s newest February 11, 2014 release The Wonder Well are: In Spiritus – featuring Daya, Never Alone, The Wonder Well, At Home, Window to the West, If a Rose Could Speak – featuring Daya, Unbounded, The Cup and the Veil, The Meeting Place, Heartstrings, & Beautiful World.

To sample and purchase The Wonder Well visit JohnAdorney.com. Available on audio CD or digital MP3 formats, you may find John Adorney’s The Wonder Well at Eversound.com Record Label. Cover art design courtesy John & Nathan Adorney.

Music for Award CeremonyIt’s time to Celebrate with Inspiring Music: List of 10 Award Ceremony Celebration Songs & Anthems.

When it comes to a victory party or celebration occasion to recognize a person’s hard earned achievement, there is nothing better than selecting the perfect award ceremony music.

Inspiring songs with upbeat themes are guaranteed to set the tone and atmosphere of your get-together while the award recipient basks in the sweet victory of success.

With all of the recent honors given to athletes from all nations scoring personal victories and winning medals in the Sochi Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, providing a list of award ceremony music seemed like a well-timed article to write.

In case you are wondering the song played during the Sochi Olympic Metal Award Ceremony is the national anthem of the individual person or team member’s country who won the gold medal.

Playing the gold medalist’s national anthem during the Medal Award Ceremony was also the case during the London Olympics in 2012.

In addition to the individual national anthem of the gold medalist’s country the song Chariots of Fire by Vangelis was also an official anthem played during the London Summer Olympic Medal Award Ceremonies.

The inspiring song Chariots of Fire was the perfect victory song in this case, but the classic Vangelis tune is not necessarily the best song for every special occasion.Gold Medal Award

All Olympic athletes who won a gold, silver, or bronze medal during the Sochi Winter Olympics indeed have a very good reason to celebrate, but even everyday people like you and I will have our own special occasion to celebrate.

Apart from the music played during the Olympic Games, during our special get-togethers with friends we too want to select the perfect anthem for our award ceremony music.

Depending on your award ceremony occasion, whether it is a formal educational graduation ceremony, achievement award party, or a host of other informal special occasions to celebrate with upbeat, exultant music, here is a list of 10 popular award ceremony songs and classic anthems to choose from.

There is a selection of classic songs from multiple genres suggested in this list of celebration songs including classical, rock, adult alternative, pop and Christian music.

Enjoy your latest victory, every winner knows it is fun to be number one! Big Stock Photos by YuriSamsonov & EskayLim.

10 Songs and Anthems for Award Ceremony Music:

1. Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1 in D (Land of Hope and Glory) by Sir Edward Elgar.
2. We Are The Champions by Queen.
3. Celebration by Kool & the Gang.
4. Celebrate by Three Dog Night.
5. I Just Want To Celebrate by Rare Earth.
6. Party In The U.S.A. by Miley Cyrus.
7. Eye Of The Tiger by Survivor.
8. Holding Out For A Hero by Bonnie Tyler.
9. Long Distance Runner by Degarmo & Key.
10. On Top Of The World by Imagine Dragons.
Official Sochi Olympic Music 2014Official Olympic Music for 2014: Sample or purchase the new Official Album of Sochi 2014 Olympic Games with 13 songs.

If you are a fan of the Olympic Games, and you would like to sample or purchase the official sanctioned album of the 2014 Olympic Games, this year proves to be a winning combination. Official albums are periodic over the years, but I am happy to report the inspiring 2014 Olympic Album is available.

This release titled; Official Album of Sochi 2014 Olympic Games, was issued February 3, 2014. The release with 13 songs includes anthems, pop songs, electronic dance music and classic hits, primarily up-tempo and sung in the Russian language.

There are countless Olympic album imitations, so significant is the fact this is an official release now made accessible to the public by officials of the Sochi Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Note: The 13 song CD album, MP3 album and digital song downloads of the new Official Album of Sochi 2014 Olympic Games is no longer available.

Official Album of Sochi 2014 Olympic Games – Artists and Songs:

1. Song: Anthem of Olympic Games 2014 by Artists: Valeriya, Dima Bilan, Sofiya Rotaru, Filipp Kirkorov, Yuliya Savicheva, Vladimir Presnyakov, Maks Pokrovskiy, Timati & Banda

2. Song: Olympic Dance by Artist: Alina Artts

3. Song: The Sky Has Us by Artists: Elka & Zmey

4. Song: Once More in Russia by Artists: Anna Sulitsyna & Valeriya

5. Song: Anthem of Olympic Games by Artists: Kirill Ukhanov & Dmitriy Koldun

6. Song: Olympic Games by Artists: Olesya Khalme & Alena Sviridova

7. Song: Time of Victories by Artists: Teni & Vladimir Presnyakov

8. Song: Olympic by Artists: Nafa & Buranovskie Babushki

9. Song: Olympic Flame by Artists: Sergey Ivanov & Zhanna Friske

10. Song: Hello, Olympic Games by Artists: Sergey Demin & Zhasmin

11. Song: Olympic Games in Sochi by Artists: Nikola Stasyuk Band & Korni

12. Song: Olympic Dream by Artists: Sergey Konkov & Aleksandr Buynov

13. Song: Light the Fire of Game On All the Earth by Artists: Anna Maslova & Denis Maydanov

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Karen Olson - ViolistKaren Olson: International Musician (viola), Recording Artist, Composer and Sound Healer releases her newest album, Convergence.

Karen Olson is an internationally recognized violist, recording artist and composer. This skillful and talented artist combines her unique background as a instrumental musician, Reiki master, and intuitive holistic healer, by providing interactive, fun and inspiring concerts and programs.

Based in New York, this music professional’s newest album Convergence follows like minded official album releases; Elemental Journey, Timeless Being, Seasons of the Soul, Earth Angel, and Ellypsis feat. Karina O. & Christobal Jacques. Her music has been described as a wonderful blend of classically oriented jazz fusion that has instrumental New Age and World Music influences.

Karen Olsen is a music professional who holds a Bachelor’s Degree and a Master’s Degree from The Juilliard School, a Master’s Degree from Yale University and a Ph.D. from New York University and she is a certified practitioner and teacher in several healing modalities including Theta Healing.

Performing for audiences all over the world, Karen Olsen is a member of the New York Pops. Her CD Timeless Being ranked #1 on multiple charts, and she edited a top-selling viola scale book for ECSchirmer. During her stellar music career Karen Olsen has performed with famous music celebrities including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Sammy Davis Jr. and Liza Minnelli. Karen plays on Thomastik-Infeld strings.

There are other renown artists who have commented about Karen. Dr. Michael Brant DeMaria, a 4-time Grammy Nominee, Sound Healing Artist and Integrative Psychologist had this to say about Karen and her abilities:

Karen Olson is much more than an extremely gifted composer and musician, she is a sound healer and visionary artist. Her compositions and music are beautiful, heartfelt and always a soulful healing balm for body, mind and spirit.       Dr. Michael Brant DeMaria

Find out more about this talented international artist by visiting Karen Olson.com. During your site visit you may sample and purchase Convergence and earlier album releases and learn more about this talented artist, and follow her on Facebook and Twitter social media pages. You may likewise schedule concerts, private instruction, and music workshops by request.

Press photos are courtesy KarenOlsen.com.

Olympic Youtube Video ChannelView Inspiring Videos at YouTube Olympic Video Channel.

If you are a fan of the Olympics and Paralympics then you know there is already a lot of news and information available to everyone prior to the official start of the upcoming 22nd Olympic Winter Games on February 7, 2014.

The first worldwide music fest planned for the Opening Ceremony begins on February 7, 2014, with televised coverage up to the games end and Closing Ceremony on February 23, 2014. Until then, videos with inspiring songs as the background music are available on the official Olympic Channel at YouTube.

I listened to many upbeat songs among the videos with music I sampled. Some video categories to watch include Countdown to Sochi 2014, Olympic Records, 90 Seconds Of The Olympics, Olympic History, Higher Faster Stronger, Olympic Quizzes and Athlete Profiles. There are also past event videos with background music, sponsor and information about the IOC.

Music is an important aspect of the Olympics so watch for more news on the artists and songs selected for the 22nd Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

Visit the official Olympic Video Channel at YouTube. Big Stock Photo credit – Chrisroll.

Sochi Winter Olympic GamesOlympic Tribute Music to Sochi Winter Games performed by Karl Jenkins and his new age music group Adiemus.

In light of the dramatic news coming out of Russia lately, anticipation for the Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia outshines the dark news of late. For the athletes that will be performing during this historic event their opportunity to achieve excellence and rise above will be a bright visible test of the human spirit.

The official music to be performed during the Opening, Closing and Medal Ceremonies has not been announced by the International Olympic Committee yet but more news about the artists and their songs to be played during the ceremonies will be coming soon.

New age artist Vangelis and his inspiring Chariots of Fire song was a key song played during the London Olympic Games in 2012, so given the inspirational fortitude of the genre, new age music compositions may again be selected for this year’s ceremonies.

Interest in the Olympic Games has never been greater, and for many people the official music is likewise a point of interest. There are tribute songs available you can listen to right now. One tribute song is by Karl Jenkins and his new age group Adiemus. Composed and conducted by Karl Jenkins, Adiemus is a fusion of new age and world music, with choir vocals in many songs.

Adiemus is often compared to Enigma and Deep Forest, and I always felt the young boys choir Libera, directed by Robert Prizeman, should be included too. Regardless of the comparison, Karl Jenkins and the group Adiemus perform uplifting songs designed to rekindle the human spirit, fitting of the athletes goal and their upcoming challenge to light up the world. The self-titled song video by Karl Jenkin’s group Adiemus is one of nine from the Songs Of Sanctuary album.

For more information about the inspiring music of Adiemus visit KarlJenkins.com.

YouTube song video produced by MrFryDeep. Big Stock Photo photo credit – HelleM.

Pianist Kevin BluemelNew Piano Songs in 2013: Pre-release album review for Uncharted by new age pianist Kevin Bluemel.

There are a number of enjoyable aspects with being the host of a popular music blog. One noticeable feature is when I interview or write a pre-release album review about the newest music by a popular celebrity artist prior to the official album release date.

Writing about today’s top instrumental artists has in turn made this site a popular destination, however there is nothing more rewarding to me personally than when I assist a less famous, but uniquely talented artist. Regardless of whether an artist is top-ranked or not I aim to inform visitors and provide increased publicity for today’s best artists and their newest album.

Today I would like to introduce new age pianist Kevin Bluemel, who is an exceptional independent artist with a rare talent as a composing pianist. I say this with full confidence and sincerity, having spent several days sampling his 2010, self-titled debut album, and newest album with 12 songs titled Uncharted, scheduled for release next week on February 5, 2013.

Uncharted by Kevin Bluemel - 2013The 12 new piano songs by Kevin Bluemel on Uncharted are an impressive blend of piano and electronic instrumentals. Eight years in the making, you can tell these songs are skillfully composed, produced and performed just like songs from his debut album, Eye of the Storm, Heart of the Journey & Sailing the Forgotten.

Kevin Bluemel began playing piano at a young age and later began composing music in a distinctly original style, best described as classic piano and electronic instrumental music reminiscent to artist like Vangelis, Yanni and Hans Zimmer. Quality songs from Uncharted like A New Day, Vitality, Distant Serenade, Seaside & Uncharted (title song) are several favorite songs everyone will enjoy, simply by the classical melody phrasing and moving cinematic nuances.

After his first studio release, Kevin Bluemel began acquiring fans from all corners of the globe. Now with the release of Uncharted coming up next week, take a minute to discover this great artist for yourself and make Kevin Bluemel’s website and music store your next destination! Listed as new age, instrumental, contemporary piano, the 12 songs are: A New Day, Call of the Sea, Vitality, Prelude, Forest of Dreams, Distant Serenade, Seaside, Uncharted, Beyond the Horizon, Secret of the Bay, Overture & Storm Front.

Visit KevinBluemel.com to sample or purchase Uncharted and his self-titled debut release. Sample digital songs now, and after February 5, 2013 you may purchase Uncharted at Amazon.com. Photo and cover art courtesy kevinbluemel.com.

Pam Tillis & Kris ThomasMartin Luther King Jr. & Elvis Presley Tribute Song single by country music legend Pam Tillis & Kris Thomas.

The good people at television media and internet music video company Rive Video Promotion sent me an inspiring tribute song video for our enjoyment, just in time for civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

This song video titled Two Kings is a tribute to the enduring legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and Elvis Presley, two of the most iconic figures in modern American history. This tribute song honors what both men stood for and their beliefs and dream for a better America.

The song Two Kings is performed by country music legend Pam Tillis and singing songwriter Kris Thomas. If you would like to purchase this great song single by two great artists you can find Two Kings at iTunes.

Artists, bands and record labels can find information about Rive Video production services for video airplay on stations like MTV, BET, CMT and other media at RiveVideo.com. Photo of Pam Tillis & Kris Thomas is courtesy rivevideo.com.

The celebration of Christmas, and the holiday season leading up to the special day is one of renewed excitement for most people. However you look at it, the period leading up to Christmas Day is a busy time of year. Shopping for gifts and preparing are a priority, but most important of all, Christmas is a special time to celebrate with family and friends.

On the subject of gift giving however, one of the new Christmas Albums in 2012 would make a wonderful Christmas gift this year. While I operate a completely non-profit site, many of the artists I represent are offering special discounts on all of their music in either CD or digital mp3 formats.

This time of year also marks a period in time when artists are offering sale discounts on all merchandise including DVDs, apparel, and a large variety of gift items. There are too many artists with special sale pricing, but a good place to start is the 10 artists with new Christmas Albums in 2012.

While you are at their website to sample or purchase their brand new Christmas album, many of the artists below have related merchandise so check out their selection of gift items too. Find more popular new Christmas albums at Amazon.com. Photo by – Anastasiya Zalevska.

Popular New Christmas Albums in 2012:

10 New Christmas Albums in 2012:

1. Christmas by Albedo.

2. Home for Christmas by Celtic Woman.

3. A Choral Christmas by Cusco.

4. Christmas Spirit by David Arkenstone.

5. O Christmas (Solo Piano) by Isadar.

6. Christmas Romance by Jim Brickman.

7. Embracing Winter by Jim Hudak.

8. Christmas by Kevin Kern.

9. Peace on Earth by Kitaro.

10. Candlelight Christmas by Mannheim Steamroller.

Pre-release Easy Listening Album Review for – Standing Ovation: The Greatest Songs From The Stage by Susan Boyle.

It can be said the life story of Susan Boyle is an inspiration to those who know her best, but by all accounts, Susan Boyle is an inspiration to untold millions of people worldwide. It’s as if her sudden rise to stardom after appearing on the television reality show Britain’s Got Talent was meant to be, if not a dream come true.

Now with the prominence of a top ranked seasoned professional, best-selling albums, and top of the chart success covering five continents in over twenty countries, once again she is destined to sing her way into the hearts of millions. Some may find it ironic knowing it all began with the song I Dreamed a Dream.

Susan Boyle’s three earlier albums I Dreamed A Dream, The Gift & Someone To Watch Over Me are all popular, easy listening vocal albums loved by an constantly increasing fan base that spans the globe.

Standing Ovation: The Greatest Songs From The Stage is the newest album by Susan Boyle, due to be released on November 13, 2012. Her newest release is a compilation of classic songs, and as the album subtitle suggests, are 11 favorite songs performed in the theater and some of the greatest movies ever produced.

One day prior to the release of her new album on November 13, 2012 Susan Boyle appeared on NBC’s Today Show Concert Series, and performed the Abba cover song The Winner Takes It All. If you listened to her sing live for the first time it was a beautiful introduction.

For the millions of people who know her story and have listened to the soprano sing, simply discovering the talents of Susan Boyle has been the shared moment of victory uniting us all.

The 11 songs on Standing Ovation are Somewhere Over The Rainbow, The Winner Takes It All, Send In The Clowns, The Music Of The Night featuring Michael Crawford, Bring Him Home, Memory, As Long As He Needs Me, All I Ask Of You featuring Donny Osmond, Out Here On My Own, You’ll Never Walk Alone, This Is The Moment featuring Donny Osmond.

Sample all 11 songs from Standing Ovation on the music video below. It is hard to believe but it was reported one earlier YouTube video reached viewership of almost 2.5 million hits within the first seventy two hours, which is a testament to her popularity. Read Susan Boyle’s inspiring story and sample or purchase at SusanBoyleMusic.com or find the audio CD and mp3 downloads for Standing Ovation at Amazon.com on November 13, 2012.

Patriot Day Tribute Song – War by Peter Jennison.

Patriot Day is an official federal holiday observed each year in the United States on September 11, in remembrance of the world changing events that transpired in America on September 11, 2011. Patriot Day is unlike the similarly named civic holiday Patriot’s Day, which commemorates the anniversary of the first battles of the American Revolutionary War. Patriot Day is a newer holiday in the United States, but an important one for Americans, also being a day of unity in the political sense.

Patriot Day will always be a significant day of remembrance in honor of the people who lost their lives on 9/11. This year’s Patriot Day holiday in particular arrives at another historic turning point in America’s history, and a period in time when enlisted American men and women on active duty overseas are making the return trip home, or will return home someday to be united with their families.

Peter Jennison is a U.S. Army Captain and MEDEVAC helicopter pilot making a return trip home to his family. On his Facebook page it states that weeks ago, one of America’s protectors, was reunited and spending time with friends and family after a year’s tour of duty in Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan. Peter Jennison is also a great artist who earlier released a piano instrumental album relative to his war experiences as an active service member titled Longing For Home.

Peter Jennison’s song titled War from his Longing For Home album makes a great tribute song for Patriot Day. While Peter Jennison has expressed the music and title of his instrumental album was based on his own longing to serve and return home, it can be said there are millions of American family members worldwide who would convey the same message about their enlisted service member. They too are longing for their family member’s safe return home.

Visit the Facebook Page of Peter Jennison. Sample or purchase songs and the album Longing For Home at Amazon.com and other online music stores like CDBaby and iTunes. Big Stock Photo photographer credit – JustASC.

Pre-release Review: Let Mother Earth Speak by Dennis Banks & Kitaro. New spoken word album with song single included entitled Peace, available in audio CD and digital downloads.

Distinguished Native American activist Dennis Banks has teamed up with international new age superstar and GRAMMY® Award-winning Kitaro for his new album titled Let Mother Earth Speak.

This unity of Dennis Banks, who provides spoken word narrative, and Kitaro who accompanies Dennis with world-class instrumentals, is a world apart culturally speaking from the music customarily heard in modern day society.

Let Mother Earth Speak is an exclusive new release like no other in the genres of spoken word, along with traditional Native American music. Introducing 9 songs total on the album and the life history of Dennis Banks, an Anishinabe from the land of the Ojibwa people, is delivered by spoken word and traditional Native American Indian songs.

Kitaro’s instrumentals of keyboards, Native Indian Flute, percussion, and ethnic woodwinds transcend the message of peace and real life stories with a sense of inspiring realism. Artists Tomoko Koshikawa and Kirilola sing background vocals.

There is a sense of authenticity in the voice of Dennis Banks given the down to earth clarity in which he uses spoken word to encourage a more peaceful existence, while recalling past memories and wisdom learned from the experience.

Sharing oneness with the earth in which they live day to day, Dennis Banks and Kitaro each embolden the message of international peace in their own lives as individuals. Together as a team, their encouraging message speaks of peace and harmony with new-found optimism, making the elusive goal of world peace seem less abstract and more like a compellingly real concept within arm’s reach.

Domo Music Group is presenting this arrangement by Dennis Banks and Kitaro. This album will be interesting to watch since this project will be submitted for GRAMMY® consideration in the Spoken Word category in 2012 – 2013.

Receiving nomination or a GRAMMY® Award for Best Spoken Word Album will be a challenge however since past winners include 2012 Winner Betty White, plus former and current U.S. Presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

This new album composed and arranged by Dennis Banks and Kitaro, is timed to be officially released on September 11, 2012. You may sample or purchase this album right now with 18 page cover booklet containing photos and song lyrics at Domo Music Group and iTunes.

Let Mother Earth Speak has 9 songs titled as follows: Thank You Great Spirit, Song Of Responsibilities, The Missionary Song, A Good Day To Die, Don’t Cry, End Of The Day, She Don’t Love Me Anymore, Longest Walk 2 and Peace.

Visit DennisBanks.org to learn more, and to sample or purchase visit the Domo Music Group pages for Dennis Banks and the Domo Music Group pages for Kitaro. Cover artwork courtesy dennisbanks.com & kitaromusic.com.

New Age Album: Patterns of Reflection by Peter Sterling.

With beginning origins of the harp dating back to around 2500 B.C., some might believe the heavenly instrument of ancient times may have fallen out of favor in today’s modern instrumental music scene. Even by today’s standards the acoustic and electronic harp as a stringed solo and orchestral instrument is as popular as it ever was. The celestial harp, with strong religious ties throughout history is legendary for producing beautiful melodies with peaceful, uplifting harmony.

Peter Sterling is widely accepted as one of today’s best harpist in the new age music genre. For over 20 years Peter Sterling has immersed himself in attaining leading prominence as a top professional harpist, who also performs live tours in ensembles and as a premier harp soloist in the United States and countries overseas.

Founding his own Harp Magic Music recording label, Peter Sterling’s twelfth album Patterns of Reflections embraces harp and instrumental music with a pronounced celestial effect as earlier releases The Sands of Time, Harp Magic & Harp Dreams.

Releasing some of his best harp music to date, Patterns of Reflections is a beautiful instrumental album marketed like any other release, but harp music is also tied to a niche market since harp melodies are often used in weddings, memorial services, and other special occasions where relaxing music is requested and appreciated most.

Patterns of Reflection, composed and produced by Peter Sterling, is an expertly layered 16 song collection featuring a contemporary array of peaceful and uplifting harmonies by way of a celestial stringed instrument born centuries ago.

Performing on a contemporary electronic acoustic harp, Peter Sterling and a talented group of artists employ a modern day technique that portray harp and instrumental music with vision and above all, divine inspiration.

Visit HarpMagic.com and buy songs and albums at the Harp Magic music store. Photos are courtesy harpmagic.com.

Race To The End by Jon Anderson, with Christophe Lebled. Tribute Song to Olympic themed Chariots of Fire by Vangelis.

Even with the London 2012 Olympic Games moving full speed ahead, official Olympic music scores for the ceremonial events appear to have taken on a life of their own. First by the record breaking interest given to artists producing Olympic songs with official ties to the London Games, and secondly a number of equally exciting tribute albums and songs produced by various artists.

Original YES vocalist and lyricist Jon Anderson of the United States, and artist Christophe Lebled from France, have produced a wonderful Olympic tribute song of the famous Vangelis composition Chariots of Fire. Jon’s new mp3 single shown in the song video below is aptly titled Race To The End.

Jon Anderson as you may know has performed live concerts with Vangelis for years, and together they have produced a number of great singles and albums as the team (Jon & Vangelis). The albums Short Stories, The Friends of Mr. Cairo, Private Collection & Page of Life, are highly regarded classic albums. Two of the most popular Jon & Vangelis singles/songs with an inspiring theme are I’ll Find My Way Home & State of Independence.

Christophe Lebled has in turn has worked with Jon Anderson a number of times over the years, more recently providing instrumentals for Jon Anderson’s prized concept album Survival & Other Stories. Christophe Lebled is again working with Jon Anderson in 2012. Their newest project is the Olias of Sunhillow – Live in 2012 sequel titled Zamran. This newest project is a re-creation of Jon Anderson’s original Olias of Sunhillow, which was Anderson’s first solo album.

Race To The End by Jon Anderson, with Christophe Lebled is a brilliant new song revision on Vangelis’s original composition Chariots of Fire. You can sample the new Race To The End single yourself, but I thought the lyrics and vocals by Anderson, and the keyboard soundscapes by Lebled is a fine song version of Chariots of Fire, itself with an inspiring theme song of the Olympics Games.

Jon Anderson is due to perform in the UK during the Earth and Peace Concert at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London, England. Jon Anderson’s concert performance is going to be at Sadler’s Wells Theater in London on August 8, 2012.

People attending this special concert event at Sadler’s Wells Theater will hear Jon Anderson and the Slovakian Chamber Orchestra perform favorite song classics from YES, Jon & Vangelis songs, plus new songs specific to the Earth and Peace Concert, timed with the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Ticket information for the Sadler’s Wells Concert will be posted when available at JonAnderson.com. Currently the former front-man of YES is also scheduled to perform live concerts in Uruguay and Brazil this September.

Christophe Lebled himself has produced an entire album to compliment the orchestral works of Vangelis. The release from 2011 titled Tribute to Vangelis has 11 songs total, and is comprised of a variety of Vangelis soundtrack songs including Antarctica, The Bounty – Closing Theme, Pinta Nina Santa-Maria, Pulstar & Abraham’s Theme from Chariots of Fire.

Tribute to Vangelis by Christophe Lebled is an admirable tribute album to the Greek composer. In every respect, Christophe Lebled’s Tribute to Vangelis release is unequaled to any other interpretations I have ever heard to date.

While keeping within the same melody and intricate harmony structures of Vangelis compositions, the sound and atmosphere is uniquely his own, which makes a masterful re-creation to compliment the graceful soundscape of composer Vangelis. Christophe Lebled not only re-creates the sound of Vangelis, but rivals the composer in effect with some areas on this fine tribute release.

Jon Anderson and Christophe Lebled each have their own original albums to check out, in addition to their new tribute single for Vangelis’s Chariots of Fire. Below is the Race To The End song video. Check back for Anderson’s new album Zamran, featuring Christophe Lebled later in 2012.

Sample or purchase Race To The End at iTunes, and visit Christophe’s website at ChristopheLebled.com. Photos courtesy jonanderson.com & christophelebled.com.

Vangelis – Official Music for 2012 London Olympics.

With the start of the 2012 London Summer Olympic Games set to begin on July 27, 2012, it seems fans of the Greek composer Vangelis have clearly scored an early victory by way of an official Olympic music news release about a famous instrumental soundtrack score composed by Vangelis.

The song Chariots of Fire was earlier reported to be the official 2012 Olympic music for the athletic games opening ceremonies, and now Kate Mansey, a journalist for London newspaper The Sunday Times, reported on another new development regarding Vangelis. Her source of press information for the latest news announcement was direct from the producer of the victory award ceremonies Nicci Hallifax.

The song Chariots of Fire by Vangelis is now confirmed to be the official 2012 Olympics theme music to be played during every medal awards ceremony for the duration of the historic athletic events. In addition to the medal award ceremonies, the song was played during the opening events and will be performed during relay of the Olympic Flame.

The London Philharmonic Orchestra has reproduced 5 new recordings or remixes of the original Vangelis composition Chariots of Fire, which won Vangelis an Academy Award for Best Original Music Score. The Academy Award-winning Chariots of Fire movie is based on the inspiring story of two British athletes competing together at the 1924 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, France.

Chariots of Fire (On Stage) by Vangelis, is a brand new Olympic themed theatrical movie soundtrack score released days ago on July 23, 2012. The theatrical play soundtrack has 11 songs of new orchestral music by Vangelis, used for the theater stage adaptation of the Academy Award-winning Chariots of Fire movie. The play adaptation showing in the UK premiered on May 9, 2012 at the Hampstead Theatre in London, England.

The official VangelisWorld.com site is running but inactive. For more information visit the independent Vangelis website at Elsew.com and my section for Vangelis.

You may sample or purchase this epic album release in audio CD or digital downloads of the original Chariots of Fire at Amazon.com and the Chariots of Fire (On Stage) at Amazon.co.uk. Big Stock Photo – MOKreations.

The official 2012 London Olympic music by Vangelis, having an inspiring and universal theme is clearly a winning choice. The 5 new Chariots of Fire song compositions performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra are as follows:
1. Energy Song Version – Up-tempo song remix.
2. Heritage Song Version – Down-tempo song remix.
3. Extreme Song Version – Jazzier style song remix.
4. Prime Time Song Version – Pop music song remix.
5. World Stage Song Version – Original orchestral song remix.

Memorial Day is an official federal holiday, in remembrance of Americans who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The military branches of the U.S.A.F. are comprised of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Forces and the Coast Guard.

Craig Karolus is an independent new age artist whose music I reviewed recently, but Craig Karolus also served in the U.S. Armed Forces for eight years of duty as a medic in the U.S. Army. One day prior to today’s Memorial Day Holiday 2012, he posted a song tribute in remembrance to U.S. veterans.

Honoring American men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice, here is a new YouTube song video titled Veterans. The music video of Veterans consists of formal ceremonial footage at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.

With a backdrop of soldiers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Arlington National Cemetery, the song Veterans begins with trumpet and percussion, before a crescendo to complete orchestra sound, until the closing refrain. The tribute music video Veterans couldn’t be more appropriate. Likewise we salute all United States service members at home and abroad.

Craig Karolus has released two albums. The first is titled Standing On Top and his newest album in 2012 is Family Values. Visit CraigKarolus.com and Craig’s YouTube channel. Photo and video courtesy craigkarolus.com.

Music Review: Collection of Americana Songs.

With the Memorial Day weekend nearing, Americans across the United States will be honoring service men and women who have given their lives while serving their country. Memorial Day is likewise a holiday weekend when people travel across America, and experience the cultural diversity that is present in each of the 50 united states.

Composing pianist Joey Curtin has produced a tribute album about the American experience entitled Soundtrack for America. The release is a wonderful collection of Americana music where she, co-producer Marc Cooper, and guest artists portray the diverse culture we share as Americans musically. Joey Curtin is a great musician as is Marc Cooper, president of Coop Deville Records, and musician who has performed with Steve Howe, Joe Walsh, Jan Ackerman, and other popular artists.

Soundtrack for America, first released in 2008, is a unique album with a diverse portion of music influences which has been featured on Public Radio and Folk Music stations across America and a number of countries. Soundtrack for America is also a music recording recently inducted into the Dolph Brisco History collection in Austin, Texas.

Soundtrack for America is a collection of 13 Americana songs arranged to tell a story by varying music styles, beginning with my favorite melody, The Immigrant Song. The first piano and instrumental song is beautifully performed, and contains elements of cinematic music. You will find Native American music influences present in the song Wampanoag, before traversing a Jazz influence in Swing Low Sweet Chariot.

There are enjoyable versions of the hymns God Bless America, Amazing Grace, and the thunderous Battle Hymn Of The Republic. Although the album was produced several years ago, Soundtrack for America is a wonderful song collection highlighting the cultural diversity of music, people, and places in America.

Joey Curtin’s most current solo piano album entitled Going to California is an excellent cover arrangement of solo piano music by legendary artists like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Coldplay, Bob Dylan, Steve Winwood and The Who.

Visit JoeyCurtin.com and CoopDeville.com to find Soundtrack for America and to learn more about Joey Curtin and Marc Cooper. Photos are courtesy joeycurtin.com.

New Music Review: Family Values by Craig Karolus.

Craig Karolus is an independent new age artist who has released a new 2012 album that is sensible in style and manner, in every way.

In an uneasy world where a moment of collective unity and reasoning is needed now more than ever, Craig Karolus has not only made an expertly designed approach in the audible sense, but in grace and perception with why he produced his album entitled Family Values.

After visiting his official website, I could tell Craig Karolus shares many of the same values as you or I, and is a lot like the majority of us by the attention and importance given to friends and family.

Family Values is in fact a tribute album dedicated to celebrate the lives of living family members, and to four family members who passed away between the months of January and June during 2011.

I accentuate the principles of Craig Karolus since I wanted to give everyone a chance to see his personal point of view, in addition to the significance and depth of his tribute music to family members. The 8 songs on Family Values were composed with his relative’s personalities in mind, so every song is a unique illustration of their character, wonderfully reflected in song. I hope you take a minute to read their biographies at his website to see how each person is characterized in song.

Family Values is just over forty minutes long in a style I would say is closest to instrumental new age. I haven’t seen his music listed in any top 100 radio charts, but if given more coverage by the press and radio station owners, I can picture his album making the top 10 online radio chart listings.

It is not simply good new age music. I personally found this inspiring collection of songs more along the lines of excellent new age music! Rarely have I reviewed an album where I love every song completely, but his is pretty much the case with Family Values. Craig Karolus does have a strong musical background, starting with earlier years while in a marching band, to the point when his earlier rock band named “Karolus” opened a show for the rock metal group Great White.

Craig Karolus is considered a relatively new artist in the new age music market, but I also thought Craig is one of the best new artists too, and I don’t say this lightly. Family Values is the follow up to Standing On Top from 2011, which is another fine album I believe to be of the highest quality musically as his newest 2012 release.

Standing On Top & Family Values are listed in the Christian & Gospel genres and New Age Music category at several online music stores, but his music tribute to family and friends are best described as graceful and elegant. Above all, the manner in which Craig Karolus paid homage to his family is priceless.

Visit CraigKarolus.com to find more information about one of the best new artists. You can sample or purchase mp3 music downloads when you visit Craig Karolus at iTunes and major online retailers. Photos are courtesy Karolus Productions.

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